Harriet Kossman: Bead by Bead

Curated by Louisa Gloger and Elia Haworth

This exhibition of cups and saucers meticulously hand-encrusted with beads will astonish and delight. Bolinas-based artist Harriet Kossman is fascinated by the challenge of taking something ordinary and completely transforming its meaning by adding elaborate decoration. Her playful, labor-intensive creations are inspired by pure design, an appreciation for world cultures, and her philosophy.

As an artist and educator, Kossman has been a major force for creativity both in Bolinas and nationally. In the 1970s, she co-founded the Bolinas-Stinson School’s extraordinary Art Shop Program, which continues to garner prestigious awards. During her forty-year tenure at the school, Kossman taught art to nearly every student of two generations. She also organized community art projects like the Bolinas Mural Project on the Bolinas Store. Her work with art teachers throughout California brought her national prominence. She was the lead art teacher for developing assessments for K-12 art teachers for the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. Today, Kossman works in many mediums, always expressing her lively imagination.

Dates: September 21 - November 10, 2024

Location: Coastal Marin Artists Gallery